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HANDFUL OF PEACEFUL PROTESTERS MAR OTHERWISE VIOLENT DEMONSTRATION

(San Francisco, February 30) Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators crowded the streets of San Francisco today to protest a possible war with
Iraq. Protesters marched through the streets angrily confronting police
officers, smashing windows, and blocking trafic. But there is concern
among organizers tonight that the actions of a few individuals may
overshadow the overall spirit of the event.

At about 3:00 in the afternoon, a few dozen protesters broke off
from the main demonstration and walked back up Market Street. They were
observed passing by a number of windows, which remained intact. They
smiled and waved at police as they passed by. One of the protesters was
carrying a baby, who was reportedly very cute and played peek-a-boo with
passersby. Among the protesters was a friendly dog that let people pet it.
Demonstrators were overheard singing songs such as "Give Peace a Chance,"
and "Where Have all the Flowers Gone." Some were seen sharing food with
each other. According to police, their chants included a dismaying lack of
obscene words.

Police lieutenant Bustin Hedz commented, "It's a darn shame
when a violent protest like this turns peaceful. Most of the people that
came today came expecting to participate in a violent demonstration. Then
you've got a bunch of guys like these (peaceful protesters)."

Asked whether the actions of a few individuals had ruined the
demonstration, organizer Madat T. System replied, "I don't think so. I
think people understand that, overall, this was a very violent
demonstration. A lot of people came here to smash windows and scuffle with
cops, and that's what we did. It is unfortunate that the actions of a very
few individuals are going to receive more attention than they really
deserve. Whenever a few people get peaceful, the press always blows it way
out of proportion."

System refused to condemn the peaceful protesters, saying, "I
respect their right to express themselves however they choose. It's just
too bad, because now this whole thing is going to be labeled as a peaceful
demonstration."